Sir Alex Ferguson has promised to give the same attention to Shakhtar Donetsk as he would Barcelona if Manchester United end up getting paired with the Ukrainians in today's Champions League draw.

Shakhtar and German challengers Schalke are widely assumed to be the weakest of the eight remaining challengers, whilst Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid are thought to be the strongest of the non-English challengers.

But Ferguson cannot see any point in assessing who he wants to draw, or which team he would prefer to avoid.

He knows every potential opponent has its own strengths.

"There is no point trying to pick what you think would be the best one for you," said Ferguson. "You can underestimate some of them that way.

"Anyone who has got themselves into this position must have qualities; either certain players, or a good home record.

"Shakhtar Donetsk look as if they are pretty useful and Schalke knocked out Valencia and we know how difficult it was for us against them.

"As soon as the draw is made you are into your file on them to build up your knowledge. Everyone will get the same attention from me."